Apr 27, 2012

Published on Apr 21, 2012 by taofledermaus
Originally thought this was a "hit and miss" type engine because of the flywheel configuration, but after some research learned it is a 2 stroke diesel engine.

Story of this massive engine.
This is a 110 HP 2 cycle 2 cylinder hot head oil engine manufactured by the Continental Gin Company in Birmingham, Alabama. This engine was located in Yuma, Arizona, and was in use at a cotton gin from 1924 to 1949. Since this engine has no load on it, it is pretty quiet, but folks said when it was in service and under load, it could be heard for over 12 miles. It is started using compressed air and both of the hot heads are heated using torches, though I did not notice that when they started this.

Published on Apr 22, 2012 by taofledermaus
A large collection of vintage and antique crawlers. Many were unrestored and look like they should not even run, while others have been restored and look like they just rolled out of the factory. Bulldozers have a scraping blade on the front, while others are simply called "crawlers" or tracted-tractors.

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Cleaning Hard Water Build-Up
You’ve tried scrubing with all the best cleaners. You’ve even considered replacing your whole bathroom faucet because of unsightly hard water build-up. Do not worry. There’s a quick fix that will have your faucet looking like new.

10 Tips for Going Green
Whether your home is heated by gas, oil, or electricity, your hard-earned money, and the earth’s precious natural resources, could literally be going out the window, chimney or even under doors. Follow these 10 easy steps to cut your heating bill AND reduce your carbon footprint on the environment.

Add the Illusion of Space to your Bathroom
You don't have to spend thousands of dollars to pump up a pint-size bathroom. The following tips can be used to "trick" the eye into seeing more space than is truly there.

Backpacking Basics
Whenever you head into the woods for longer than a few hours, you’ll need to gear up. Base your equipment selection on the season, region and length of your trip. Don't hit the trail – even for a day hike – without these items.

Be a Perfect Pitch Pro!
Bean bag toss is just another game to play during summer get togethers. It's so easy to learn and play that anyone can do it! Get your friends and family together for a game of Perfect Pitch and you're sure to have a good time!

Bike Helmet Safety Check
Bike helmets are a great way to protect yourself and your loved ones while riding. And since at least 21 states carry laws requiring them, it's important to find a bike helmet that fits correctly. Below are some tips on selecting the right bike helmet, as well as tips on how to fit, adjust and wear your helmet each time you ride.

Camping in your own Backyard
If you and your family love camping, but hate the hassle a trip to the great outdoors can be, then keep reading! A backyard camp out can be just as enjoyable as a trip to a campground. Plus, you don't have to worry about packing or planning weeks ahead of time for your adventure. And if it rains, just head inside to the comfort of your home, what could be better?

Car Care Myths
With Spring in the air, many car owners are itching to clean, wax and wash their vehicles after the long and dirty winter. There are some things every car owner should know in order to protect and extend the appearance of their vehicle.

Cardio Change-up
If you're a creature of habit when it comes to cardio, it may be time to mix things up. Why? Doing the same workout time after time is a surefire way to sabotage your fitness goals. Start the new year with a new routine with these tips from Tempo Fitness.

Care for your Cast Iron Cookware
Cast iron cookware is best known for its heat retention and even cooking properties. It is a home staple and with proper care can become a family heirloom, lasting for generations to come. Follow these steps to ensure your cookware lasts.

Care Tips For Baby Chicks
As with any baby, chicks require the proper nurturing and care to grow up strong and healthy. Whether you’re raising chicks for egg-laying or for a Future Farmers of America competition, by following these simple care instructions you’ll raise award-winning chickens.

Catching Early Season Perch
If you can't wait to get out on the ice this season, then keep reading! Professional Ice Angler, Ron Anlauf, has provided us with some great tips on where, when and how to fish for early season perch this year.

Chain Saw Safety
The chainsaw is an efficient tool. Yet it can be dangerous if used incorrectly. That’s why safety must always come first. Even if you’re just cutting some firewood outside the back door of your house, you must use the personal protective equipment that is required in your country.

Cleaning a Car Battery
Car breakdowns are those events that always occur at the most inopportune times, but the good news is, you have the power of prevention on your side. One of the ways you can protect your vehicle is by keeping the battery clean and clear of corrosion buildup.

Cleaning Your Golf Clubs
If the heads of your clubs are not properly maintained, they won’t last as long and neither will your good golf score. So if you’re questioning your golf swing, it might not be you, it might just mean your clubs need a good cleaning.

College Bound Checklist
Starting college or moving into your first apartment can be as exciting as it is be intimidating. Right now, you may be trying to figure out what you need to bring along with all the other things you need to finish before you go. Let Blain's Farm & Fleet help! We can help you with planning tips and a checklist of everything you need for your first trip to college or your first apartment.

Competition Series Basketball System Installation
It’s a great form of exercise, it’s an activity that the whole family can be involved in and it’s a good way to enjoy the beautiful summertime weather. If you’re looking for one activity that will provide all of these benefits for years to come, consider installing a basketball system this season.

Control Wasps & Bees
Wasps and bees can be a huge issue when they create nests around your home. The last thing you need when you come home is a bee sting. Follow these quick and easy steps to ensure the safety of your family from these harmful pests.

Create A Salsa Garden
If you love fresh garden salsa, then do we ever have the project for you! Planting your very own salsa garden is easier then you could ever imagine. Follow the below instructions and tips to grow everything you need to make your own delicious salsa.

Croquet Made Simple
When the weather gets nice, you are looking for any reason to get outside and enjoy it. Yard games are a great way to spend time with your family and try something new. Croquet is just one game you can learn to spend some fun, quality time with those you care about.

Decorating an Outdoor Bench
A cute little bench can add a unique look to an outdoor space. If you love doing fix 'er up projects around the house for fun, then do we have the project for you. Thanks to RustOleum®, this project can help you turn your little wooden bench into something even more beautiful.

Deer Hunters – Use Your Optics Now
Very few deer hunters will go into the woods during deer season without a pair of binoculars and / or a spotting scope. However, many deer hunters don’t realize how critical using their optics right now is. Thanks to Blain's Farm & Fleet and Alpen Optics, you can discover why and how to scout the perfect buck.

Dragging Techniques
Dragging is one of the most versatile painting techniques you can choose and can be a wonderful addition to any room. Learn how to create this "look" with these easy steps.

Early Spring Lawn and Garden Projects
In early spring, most gardeners are chomping at the bit to get out and dig in their gardens and spruce up their yards. Sound familiar to you fellow garden gurus? Don't despair, there are still plenty of yard and garden projects that you can work on until planting season arrives.

Eat, Drink and Stay Healthy
It can be difficult to balance the desire to stay in shape and enjoy sweets and treats during the Christmas season, so we developed 10 rules for healthful holiday eating. Here's how to enjoy luscious treats and a healthy profile.

Fall Maintenance Tips for Your Home
If the dropping temperatures have you in a panic about your home this winter, take a few minutes to make sure your home is ready for another Midwest winter with our Home Maintenance Tips.

Frabill's Tips for Ice Fishing Beginners
Every year it seems like more people are showing an interest in the fun and affordable sport of ice fishing. Some anglers may have never fished in their lives until being introduced to the icy side of fishing. This project has tips and tricks from Frabill, including the ice fishing equipment you'll need to get started with frozen lake fishing.

Getting the Most Out of a Ladder Stand
Hunting can be a great way to get outdoors and enjoy something you have always loved. In order to get the most out of your time in the woods, and master the art of finding that all elusive buck, follow these ladder stand tips provided by Robb Evans with Rivers Edge Pro.

Grilling 101: America's Favorite Pork Chops
There’s nothing better during the summer than the smell of the grill and the snap of the flame as you prepare your favorite recipe. And what better for your Summer feasts than America’s favorite porkchops. This recipe is quick, easy and will have all your guests’ mouths watering.

Grilling 101: Bistro Cheeseburgers
Everything’s better on the grill! So why not try a twist on an old-fashioned American favorite? The Bistro Cheeseburger will definitely become the next addition to your summertime grilling repertoire.

Grilling 101: Salmon with Salsa Butter
Spice up your old salmon recipe with this sure-to-please grilled variation. It’s a simple dish packed with bright Southwestern flair. However, be forwarned...you’ll grill in minutes, but it will be gone in seconds!

Grilling Safety Tips
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a first time flipper, you know that firing up the grill during the summer is a real treat. But, we must all remember to grill safely, any time of year. Here are some simple grilling safety tips for you to follow.

Halloween How To's
Halloween can be one of the silliest and most fun celebrations of the year. Halloween safety is about making sure kids are safe in their costumes, safe on the street, and safe around strangers. Halloween safety is also about making sure Mom and Dad have a fun and safe night too. Follow these Halloween safety tips to make sure your little goblins enjoy the spookiest night of the year.

Hassle Free Camping Checklist
Taking your family camping can be a great way to spend time together and simply enjoy the great outdoors. Sometimes though, preparing for camping can be more of a hassle than anyone ever anticipated. With a little help from Blain's Farm & Fleet and Coleman® you're sure to be headed in the right direction.

Have a (Bocce) Ball
Never heard of Bocce Ball? You are missing out. This game is easy to learn and play for people of all ages. All you need is some fun-loving people, a large open area and a Halex Bocce Ball set for hours of fun.

Hidden Treasures
From an old table in the basement to an unfinished dresser at an auction, with a little experimentation, you can turn any old unfinished piece of furniture into a beautiful addition to any room décor! It’s easy to do with these tips from the team at Blain’s Farm & Fleet!

Holiday Fire Safety
During the holiday season, families are busy wrapping gifts, decorating the house and enjoying each other’s company, but all this joy and merriment brings an increased risk of fire. Protecting your family can be relatively simple and inexpensive. Here are some helpful holiday fire safety tips from Blain's Farm & Fleet to help prevent fire fatalities in your home this holiday season.

Holiday Gift Giving: Hot Cocoa Mix Kit
When the holiday season rolls around, everyone is looking for fun and unique gifts to give their friends, family and co-workers. Putting together a variety of hot cocoa mix kits is a fun and easy way to put a personal touch on a gift. You can even customize each kit with fun mugs that fit everyone's personality!

Holiday Recipe: Homemade Pumpkin Soup
There is nothing better on a cold winter day than homemade soup. With this quick and easy recipe, featured on the Kay Dee Designs Recipe Tea Towel, you will have delicious hot soup ready in no time!

Holiday Recipe: Hot Apple Cider Punch
If you’re looking for something different to serve during your holiday get togethers, try Tressa’s holiday recipe for Hot Apple Cider Punch. It’s a family favorite and a MUST for every Christmas and New Year’s at their house. Not only is the punch delicious, but it’s very simple.

Holiday Recipe: How to deep-fry a turkey
Deep frying turkeys has been popular in the south for years and the turkey comes out anything but greasy. The oil seals the outside, making this one of the juiciest birds you’ll ever make!

Holiday Recipe: How to grill a turkey
If you're looking for a new way to prepare your holiday turkey this year, why not try grilling it? Not only is it easier than you think, but it will be one of the most delicious birds you'll ever make. Learn how.

Holiday Recipe: How to roast a turkey
One of the most famous meals prepared in a Roaster Oven is the traditional turkey dinner. Learn how to make a moist, tender turkey while freeing up your oven for other delectable treats.

Holiday Recipe: Rolo® Turtles
The holidays are a time when many people like to make holiday cookies, candies and other delectable treats. This recipe, provided by Patty, LaCrosse, Wisconsin, is not only easy, but can be made at a moment’s notice if you have the right ingredients on hand. Bring them to that party you have later tonight!

Holiday Recipe: Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes
Now here’s a time saver recipe for the holidays. Instead of trying to make your mashed potatoes at the last minute, try Pam’s recipe for slow cooker mashed potatoes. They’re perfect for the holidays because there’s no last minute prep-work!

Home Canning 101: Canner Cleaning and Care
Whether canning is just a hobby for you or your rely on it to feed your family, you want to make sure the tools you need to can will last season after season! When the fun of canning is over, make sure you don't call it quits until you've properly cleaned your equipment for storage.

Home Canning 101: Crisp Pickle Slices
Preserve your garden produce at it's finest and explore the growing popularity of home canning. People everywhere are rediscovering home canning as a practical and enjoyable way to savor their garden goodness and flavor throughout the year. Below is just one canning recipe to create delicious pickles from cucumbers. Explore a new pickle canning recipe every year that you alter to your tastes.

Home Canning 101: Fresh Strawberry Jam
Nothing cheers up a dreary Winter morning like delicious strawberry jam. Canning your own jam is an economical and easy way to enjoy your garden produce for longer. Plus, it's better for you and your family without the harsh chemicals other jams may have. Ball canning supplies have provided us with this delicious and easy canning recipe to make your own strawberry jam at home.

Home Canning 101: Homemade Spaghetti Sauce
Cooking and canning spaghetti sauce is just one of many ways for you to preserve your fresh garden tomatoes. When you use Mrs. Wages Pasta Sauce Mix, you are well on your way to creating a delicious pasta sauce to can and enjoy all year round.

Home Canning 101: Quick & Easy Salsa
Canning salsa has never been easier! Now you can harvest your delicious tomatoes for salsa to enjoy any time. With only fresh tomatoes, vinegar and Mrs. Wages Salsa Mix, you'll create a delicious salsa. Pull out a jar in the dead of Winter and enjoy a taste of Summer all year round!

Home Canning 101: The Basics of Home Canning
If you’ve never tried home canning, now is the time to do it. People everywhere are rediscovering home canning as a practical and enjoyable way to preserve garden produce at its finest. Almost every vegetable and fruit can be canned through a simple procedure that ensures an economical and well - balanced diet year round. Below are some canning basics to get you started along with a helpful PDF.

How and when to treat Japanese Beetles and Grubs
Do you have a problem with grubs and Japanese beetles? Courtesy of Bayer Advanced, this life cycle chart provides a visual representation of the white grub and Japanese beetle life cycles, and information on how and when to treat the problem to achieve optimum results and protect turf throughout the year.

How to Build a Compost Bin
Building a Compost Bin for your backyard takes about 15 minutes. It's easy, convenient and you'll wonder why you didn't build one sooner! It makes compost quicker and cleaner than compost piles. You can also make one of these and have your own compost, even if you live in an apartment with no backyard. So easy to make and it gives nutritious homemade compost for your plants.

How To Change A Flat Tire
A flat tire doesn't have to ruin your day. With just a few simple tools, you can easily change your own tire. And, changing that flat tire is something everyone should know how to do in case you are stranded somewhere where you cannot get help.

How To Change Your Own Oil
Changing the oil on your vehicle is one of the most basic, yet most important, routine services you can perform on your vehicle. It’s also one of the easiest. With a little spare time and the proper instructions, virtually anyone can do it. Just follow these easy steps to learn how to perform this routine vehicle maintenance.

How to Clean Gutters and Downspouts
It's everyone's favorite home maintenance task. Gutter cleaning. Gutters and downspouts should be cleaned and checked for signs of necessary repairs at least twice a year. Typically, the best times to do this are late spring and late fall, when trees start to act up. Follow these simple steps to keep the trees from sprouting up in your gutters.

How to Fertilize your Lawn
If you want your lawn to be lush and green all summer long, then you will want to create a healthy lawn maintenance schedule. It’s easy to do and you’ll be surprised how a simple fertilizing program like this one can keep your lawn looking green all season long.

How to Install a Motion Activated Security Light
Why come home at night to a dark door? Or try to walk an icy sidewalk you can’t see? And what about those occasional strange noises you hear outside in the middle of the night? Outdoor lights that are automatically activated by motion detectors can solve all these problems—and others.

How to Install a Programmable Thermostat
Tired of heating or cooling an empty house while you're away? Installing a programmable thermostat is not only smart for your home, it's pure genius for your pocket book! In about an hour, you can be on your way to a more comfortable home and heating bill.

How to Seal Your Driveway
You love your blacktop driveway. It's smooth, it's clean, it's all you need. Unfortunately, asphalt driveways won't remain smooth and black forever without a little maintenance. Mother Nature does her best to break down the surface. Not to worry, Blain's Farm & Fleet has everything you need to help maintain your glorious road home.

How to Select the Right Fence Controller
The right fence controller is one of the most important items in your electric fence system. The experts at Zareba Systems explain a simple process to ensure you buy the right fence controller for your needs.

Illuminating Luminaries
If you need an idea for a quick, easy and inexpensive homemade gift or if you want to create a revision of the carved Jack-O-Lantern this year for Halloween, try making a luminary. With just four easy steps, this project is ideal for beginners. So why not produce a piece that showcases your creative side?

Inground Basketball System Installation
It’s a great form of exercise, it’s an activity that the whole family can be involved in and it’s a good way to enjoy the beautiful summertime weather. If you’re looking for one activity that will provide all of these benefits for years to come, consider installing a basketball system this season.

Installing a Mailbox
Has the Winter months left your mailbox in need of a little TLC? You may think installing a new mailbox and post is a daunting task, but don’t be fooled. After following these simple instructions, you’ll be able to add a mailbox to your home that really delivers both style and function.

Installing a New Faucet
Sometimes the littlest changes to an area can make a dramatic difference in the way you see the space. Installing a new faucet in your kitchen or bathroom can give the entire room a makeover. And it's not as hard as you'd think.

Installing a Water Garden
Turn your ordinary backyard into a vivid landscape by installing a water garden. It’s a lot easier than you may think—and will attract beautiful birds to your home all year round. With the help of these user friendly instructions and a few supplies from the team at Blain’s Farm & Fleet, your yard will be picture perfect in no time.

Keep Squirrels off Your Bird Feeders
Squirrels can be furry thieves at bird feeders, especially when the weather gets colder and food becomes more scarce. Thanks to Blain's Farm & Fleet and one of our vendors, Stokes Select, we've provided some easy steps you can take and products to purchase that help keep these critters off the feeders. Leaving the bird seed for the feathered friends instead!

Kitchen Chalkboard
A chalkboard with a natural rope hanger is a stylish way to keep reminders for yourself, or to leave notes for the rest of the family. It's also great fun for the children - you should even have enough paint left to make another for the playroom.

Ladder Golf 101
Ladder golf. Football toss. Lasso golf. Whatever you call it, this game is sure to be a good time for all your summer get togethers. But if you have ever been frustrated by friends who have different rules to this game then you have ever heard, look no further! Read these rules, grab this game, rally up some friends and get ready for hours of ropin' fun.

Lawn Mower Maintenance 101
As spring is almost upon us, it’s the perfect time to prepare your walk-behind and riding mowers for another season of work. Use this project as a checklist to ensure that your mower is in tip-top shape to work for you all season long.

Mailbox Makeover
You can buy a simple silver mailbox and stick it in front of your house in as little as 5 minutes. But what's the fun in that? If you want a mailbox that really stands out on your street than do we ever have a project for you.

Make Your Home More Secure
Protecting your family home is not an easy task. There are several ways that you can increase safety and security of your home from both internal and external threats. By making a few purchases and installations you can feel better knowing that you have helped secure your home from harm.

Outdoor Hanging Lanterns in Mason Jars
If you love the idea of creating light outside your home, then do we have a quick and easy project for you! It's easy to create elegant lanterns out of Ball Mason Jars, wire and candles. These simple steps will illuminate your yard and give any area a unique touch.

Pitching the Perfect Tent
So you and your family are all set for a weekend in the wilderness right? One problem. Setting up a tent usually proves for a rocky start to a trip. Not anymore. Coleman® has some sure fire tips to get that tent up right...in record time. So you can stop working and start relaxing.

Pressure Washing Your Vinyl Siding
Even an average house has a lot of siding, and being exposed to the elements, that siding can get pretty dirty. But with a pressure washer, you can make quick work of even the biggest projects. Get a fresh paint look for less by cleaning your vinyl siding with this step by step project sponsored by Briggs & Stratton.

Proper Flag Etiquette
The US Flag is a symbol of our nation’s freedom which is why it is so important to use proper etiquette when you display your flag. Below you will find some guidelines to help you determine the best way to show your stars and stripes.

Providing Food For Your Birds
Learn how easy it is to provide a source of food for your feathered friends in this final step in our series about how to create a "backyard wild."

Providing shelter for your birds
Welcome nature’s feathered friends into your yard with charming birdhouses and natural landscaping. Our team will teach you how easy it is to build a birdhouse and provide you with tips for adding additional bird shelter through your own landscaping. With just a few of the proper tools from Blain’s Farm & Fleet, your yard will become a natural habitat for all kinds of birds.

Pruning For Beginners
Out with the old and in with the new. The hardiest of shrubs can benefit from this sage advice. Follow these simple instructions and your plants are sure to be stronger and more vigorous.

Pumpkin Painting
The idea of painting pumpkins is relatively new, and has allowed pumpkins to be used as a new art form during the Halloween season. Painting pumpkins can be a great alternative to messy carving. Follow these steps to create beautiful works of art that you can display all fall.

Quick Workouts: A Little Goes A Long Way
Striving for perfection is admirable, but when it comes to working out, it can be a foolhardy quest. Too many people put off their workouts until they have the time for their ideal two-hour cardio-yoga-aquatic-weightlifting regimen. With busy schedules, weeks can go by before you can find time for the Dream Routine. Here are a few tips to get started.

Reese’s Peanut Butter Filled Cupcakes
The family will be eager to try these delectible cupcakes. And with Farm & Fleet's silicone bakeware, it makes clean up a snap. Try this recipe for your family this holiday season.

Repairing Concrete Cracks
Cracks in your concrete driveway are not only unattractive, but they can lead to further driveway deterioration. Instead of a costly driveway replacement, follow these simple instructions to patch your driveway and your pocketbook.

Roll A Score Skeeball: Assembly & Rules
Bring “arcade - style” skeeball fun home with a SkeeBall Game Table. Go for your personal high score or compete against a friend for hours of competition. This Skeeball Game Table is a great addition to the game room or garage. Keep reading for assembly tips and rules for play. Two adults are needed for assembly.

Scouting Camera Basics
A trail camera, or motion activated camera, can be a great way to scout out game before and during the hunting season, or to just capture natural wildlife images on your land. Now is the time to get your camera set up before the season begins. Follow these basic steps from Wildgame Innovations to ensure you get the right camera for your needs.

Second Story Pressure Washing
Cleaning the siding on the second story of your house used to be a difficult task. But pressure washers have made cleaning high up places easier than ever…without the use of scaffolding or ladders. Learn more with this step by step process sponsored by Briggs & Stratton®.

Sharpening A Lawn Mower Blade
A sharp lawn mower blade is a crucial part of having a healthy lawn. When your blade is dull, it tears grass, making the whole lawn look brown or dull. Follow these simple instructions for a lawn that will make your neighbors green with envy.

Snowblower Safety Tips
A snowblower helps you cut down the time and effort it takes to remove snow from areas such as driveways or sidewalks. However, as the snow gets deeper, the number of snowblower - related injuries increases. Thanks to Blain's Farm & Fleet and the snowblower safety experts at Briggs & Stratton, you can make sure you're safe whenever you use your snowblower this winter.

Splash Cup Football Set-up
Boost your tailgating experience with a game of Splash Cup Football. You can sink a cup on the sideline, bounce in a field goal, or go deep for a touchdown all before entering the game!

Staining your Deck
Your deck is an investment. Premium wood beautification and preservation products are great ways to help extend and protect the life of your outdoor oasis. Follow this step-by-step guide for a beautiful finish from the pros at Cabot®.

Stenciling 101
If you’ve admired stenciling from afar but have been afraid to try it, we can help. Simply follow these step by step instructions to transform your room.

Stump's Bloody Mary's
Whether celebrating the holidays, tailgating, or just enjoying a nice quiet evening at home, Stump's Bloody Mary Mix is a quick, easy way to make and enjoy your favorite drink.

Stump's Pecan Dip
Looking for a dish to pass? Blain's Farm & Fleet and Stump's have you covered. Cream cheese pecan dip is a quick and easy recipe you can have ready in no time. Plus, it's delicious so make extra to keep at home!

Tailgating Made Easy
Ready for the big game? There is nothing better than sitting with your best friends, waiting for your favorite team to play on a warm, sunny day. However, there are some essentials that you'll need to make your tailgate party even better.

Terracotta Herb Garden
Thyme, Basil, Coriander, Oregano, we all love fresh herbs, especially when they're grown in our own homes! Create your own personalized terracotta herb pots by following this great project idea from Valspar®. They also make great gifts for the cook or indoor gardener in your life.

Tips for Attracting Bluebirds
Whether you live in the city or the country, sites and sounds of a bluebird near your home can be a real treat. Most homeowners however, have a hard time attracting the elusive bluebird to their yard. Luckily, Don and Lillian Stokes of Stokes Select® have shared with us their insider tips and tricks for attracting bluebirds.

Tips to Improve Gas Mileage
Feeling the pinch at the pump? With the price of gas seeming to rise everyday, it's easy to think there is nothing you can do to save money when it comes to filling up your tank. Whether you're planning a road trip or just trying to get to work everyday, following these easy steps will help you stretch your gas tank, and dollar, even further.

Tool School: Tool Box Basics and Beyond
It doesn't matter where you live, or whether you rent or own your residence. "As long as you have four walls and a roof to call home, sooner or later there's going to be something to repair, install or update," says Paul Holstein, COO of CableOrganizer.com. Here are some essentials for every tool box.

Troubleshooting Your La Crosse Weather Station
You rely on your La Crosse Technology Wireless Weather Station daily to tell you the temperature and forecast before you leave the house. When something you rely on stops working, you want to quickly fix the problem. Try these steps to troubleshoot problems with your wireless weather station.

What to Buy Before Bringing Home a New Puppy
Your family has made the important decision to expand your family by buying a new dog or puppy, congratulations! However, before you bring the puppy home, there are some essentials you should buy to ensure your puppy will be properly cared for.

Winter Driving Safety Tips
Car complications during snowy winter weather and icy conditions can be unavoidable. Prepare your vehicle for the winter season! Include a winter car safety kit and be ready for any winter car emergencies that may come along.

Winterize Your Lawn
Most people assume that when fall comes, their lawn is preparing for a long winter's nap. After mowing for the last time, you might figure there is nothing more to do. But with the proper steps taken now, your lawn should go into the winter looking great and then come back even stronger and more lush in the spring.

World Class Inground Basketball System Installation
It’s a great form of exercise, it’s an activity that the whole family can be involved in and it’s a good way to enjoy the beautiful summertime weather. If you’re looking for one activity that will provide all of these benefits for years to come, consider installing a basketball system this season.

Abstract: Oak wilt is an aggressive disease that affects many species of oak (Quercus spp.). It is one of the most serious tree diseases in the eastern United States, killing thousands of oaks each year in forests, woodlots, and home landscapes.

Oak wilt was first identified in 1944. The fungal pathogen that causes the disease, Ceratocystis fagacearum, is thought by most to be native to the eastern United States, but difficulty in isolating and identifying the fungus delayed recognition of the extent of its impact until the 1980's. Some plant pathologists think that oak wilt is an exotic disease, arriving in North America in the early 1900's, but the fungus has never been reported from any country other than the United States. The disease has also become much more apparent in some local areas since the 1980's because of increased tree wounding, due primarily to home construction in oak woods.

http://digginginthedriftless.wordpress.com/2012/03/16/using-every-particle-of-pine/
The milling process is beginning with the pines for the roof. Doug and I also worked with a miller when we built our timber frame barn. We milled a stand of oaks killed by oak wilt for the roof boards of the barn. Doug and I spent two very physical days lifting each inch-thick oak plank off the mill and stacking them. Each cut revealed grain more beautiful than the last. It was like going to an art gallery of wood.

About Me

I was raised on a small farm in Illinois. My wife, Eileen and I and family have worked together hand and hand on this farm (and adjoining land we bought) since 1966. I attended and graduated University of Illinois, Champaign-Urbana, IL. I received a Bachelor of Science Degree (Cum Laude)in Agricultural Engineering in 1970.
I worked as a registered Professional Engineer for the Rock Island District, US Army Corps of Engineers for 33 years, before retiring. I held several supervisory positions while at Corps: Chief, Regulatory Branch, Assistant Chief of Operations Division, Chief of the Lock and Dam Branch, and Mississippi River Project Manager. One highlight of my career was developing NIC (Google "NIC - Navigation Information Connection") during the early 90's, in a joint effort, with the District's Information Management personnel and Navigation Industry Representatives.
My wife and I have 2 grown children and 4 grandchildren. We have businesses associated with farming, "live edge" furniture making, vegetable produce, and graphics. We enjoy pursuing our hobby interests.